Stretch Mark Removal Toronto

Stretch Marks Treatment

Stretch Marks? Growth spurts, pregnancies, and changes in your body weight are some of the many factors resulting in deep linear lesions (but not only) called Stretch Marks. The common belief is that only women suffer from Stretch Marks however, many men and even children might suffer from this uncomfortable condition. Stretch marks commonly appear on the breasts, abdomen, hips, and thighs and even on the triceps brachii.

Can I Develop Stretch Marks?

Here’s a list of those who are likely to develop Stretch marks more easily than others: 

• Women
• Family history of stretch marks
• Patients using corticosteroid medications
• Pregnancy
• Caucasian (having pale skin)
• Overweight
• Dramatic gain or weight loss

Stretch marks grow and deepen over time.  When collagen, or protein is stretched to the point of ripping (sounds painful, but really you don’t feel it), it becomes “disorganized collagen”.  Stages of collagen are typically measured as 1-3, one being organized, and 3 being not.  Damage may become irreversible at a certain stage, so it’s important to act fast. Laser stretch mark removal treats mild to moderate stretch marks, but may not be as effective for deeper ones.

Although surgical treatments are proven to be the most effective for stretch mark removal and body, laser treatments are a great option if you want to avoid going under the knife because they provide a non-invasive resolution with minimal to no downtime.  Laser may also aid when having the treatment done in conjunction with surgery.

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Laser stretch mark removal expectations

It is important to have realistic expectations when it comes to laser stretch mark removal.  Stretch marks will not be removed 100%.  This is why you should always have a detailed consultation with your medical aesthetician prior to proceeding with the treatment.

By using sublative/ablative laser technology, CO2 fractional resurfacing as well as skin tightening laser  we are able to stimulate collagen using penetrative heat, and slough off dead skin by using superficial heat.  This causes the stretch marks to appear more superficial, and less noticeable.  Most patients see a difference after their first session, however, usually a minimum of 3-5 sessions are required for optimal results.

Laser stretch mark removal side effects

Laser stretch mark removal is safe for almost all skin types, and no side effects typically occur.  It is important to keep the treatment area away from heat and sunlight at all times.  Some patients report temporary hyperpigmentation on the treatment area, which normally dissipates over several months.